We asked readers what their favorite spots in the District were. Here are the winners.

This is one of the first posts from our Best of Washington feature, where we rank the very best people, places, and things to do in Washington. To read the whole list now, grab our July 2015 issue—available on newsstands or purchase the digital edition here—and come back to the website for more stories over the next few weeks.

Don’t take our word for what’s best. We asked readers to tell us their favorite spots for brunch, burgers, happy hours, day trips, clothing boutiques and more. Here’s what you all had to say.

DESSERTS

Sure, the cupcake craze seems a bit stale, but we never tire of this Georgetown bakery’s confections. We’re particularly sweet on the strawberry cupcake. Also popular:Georgetown Cupcake, Sprinkles, Red Velvet.

At its three locations—Potomac, the Palisades, and Chevy Chase—this studio offers long rosters of classes as well as challenging workouts. A studio in McLean is slated to open this summer. Also popular: Fuel Pilates, Barre3, Solidcore.

With studios in the West End and Bethesda, this New York chain has won over spinning devotees with its inspirational slogans and an emphasis on empowerment. Also popular: Zengo Cycle, Flywheel, Biker Barre.

Fans of this chain—it has five locations—like the CrossFit boxes, the friendly staff, and such amenities as a saltwater pool and classy locker room at the Foggy Bottom branch. Also popular: Vida Fitness, Equinox.

The knowledgeable staff at the shop watches you run, then chooses shoes to fit your footfall as well as your foot size. The “fun runs” also make this a runaway favorite. Also popular:City Sports, Fleet Feet, Lululemon.

These two longtime family businesses—which tied for first place—dazzle Washingtonian readers with their top-notch service (including repairs) and their top-quality selections (particularly engagement rings). Also popular: Mervis Diamond Importers, Tiffany & Co., I. Gorman.

BEST LOCAL PERSONALITIES

Best Local Athlete: Alex Ovechkin

The Caps may have blown a 3-1 playoff series lead (again) to the Rangers, but the Great 8 is still a fan favorite. Also popular: Wizards point guard John Wall, Nats outfielder Bryce Harper, Olympic gold-medal swimmer Katie Ledecky, the Nats’ Jayson Werth and Ryan Zimmerman.

Best Local TV/Radio Personality: Jim Vance

The bad news: He recently retired from WRC’s 11 pm broadcast after more than 40 years in that slot. The good news: He’s still on at 6, and Washington loves him. Also popular: 94.7 FM’s Tommy McFly, Kane of The Kane Show on 99.5 FM, DC101 shock jock Elliot Segal, WRC-TV anchor Doreen Gentzler.